We are looking for a larger boat that will not break the bank = <10k and have a few that intrigue me due to what you get for the money.
I would like honest opinions as to the pros and cons of older boats when compared to older regarding build quality,sailing characteristics,possible transportation ease.
Our list of boats require a draft of 4'6 or less with an emphasis on less.
would prefer a wheel but have no problems staying with a tiller.
Mostly used for gunkholing with occasional regatta if a wild hare arises.
I have an interest in an Ericson 29t which I believe may have a crack in the keel which makes me a little shy, I can handle the work - thats "if" I really want to spend my summer working rather than sailing.
I also found a 77 C&C 26 with a wheel and diesel that looks to be in good shape.
recently I found a newer Catalina 27 that also has a wheel and diesel. Are the Catalinas really built thin like the BOATUS review states?
I can get my hands on a different 77 C&C 26 with a vire engine and tiller sitting on a nice trailer for much less, unfortunately I found that parts for that engine are almost extinct.
In my opinion, the older boats were built stonger, am I crazy?